For decades, daily eye drops have been the trusted foundation of glaucoma care. Yet, for many, the routine is more challenging than it appears. Missed doses, stinging eyes, and persistent irritation are all too common struggles for those relying on drops to manage their glaucoma.
At Empire Eye Physicians, we are excited to introduce iDose TR, an FDA-approved innovation that delivers glaucoma medication directly from within your eye. This means freedom from the daily drop routine and more time to focus on the moments that matter most.
What is iDose TR?
iDose TR is a small titanium implant, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that is placed inside the eye and gradually releases glaucoma medication over an extended period.
The implant contains travoprost, a pressure-lowering medication in the same family as many prescription eye drops. What makes iDose TR unique is its delivery: instead of depending on daily reminders, the implant steadily releases medication exactly where it is needed, month after month.
Who is a Good Candidate for iDose?
iDose TR is approved for adults with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It could be an excellent choice if you find it difficult to keep up with drops, experience discomfort when using them, or simply want a more convenient way to manage your eye pressure.
The implant can be placed as a standalone procedure or performed at the same time as cataract surgery or another minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.
The only way to know for certain whether iDose TR makes sense for you is to undergo a comprehensive evaluation with a glaucoma specialist at Empire Eye Physicians. Your eye doctor will consider your pressure trends, review your current medications, and assess your overall eye health before making a recommendation.
How Does the iDose Procedure Work?
The iDose TR procedure is quick and gentle, performed in an outpatient setting. Your eye surgeon creates a tiny incision, even smaller than those used in cataract surgery, and places the implant at the front of your eye. Once in place, it immediately begins delivering medication. Most patients feel comfortable throughout, and the entire process takes just a few minutes.
What to Expect During Recovery After the iDose Procedure
Recovery after iDose TR is typically swift. After the procedure, you can head home to rest, and most people are back to their usual routines within a day or two.
You will need a few follow-up visits with your glaucoma specialist to check the implant, monitor your eye pressure, and ensure smooth healing. Since the implant sits inside your eye, you will not see or feel it as you go about your daily life.
The Benefits of iDose
The greatest advantage of iDose TR is the freedom from the endless routine of daily drops. Many people are able to reduce or even stop their glaucoma drops after receiving the implant, though results can vary from person to person.
Your eye doctor will closely monitor your pressure over time and adjust your treatment as needed. When the implant’s medication is finished, a new one can usually be placed in another quick visit, so your care continues smoothly.
Talk With a Glaucoma Specialist at Empire Eye Physicians
If daily drops feel overwhelming or you are interested in a more modern way to manage glaucoma, our team is here to help. We will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and create a plan that fits your life.
Schedule a consultation at Empire Eye Physicians in Spokane Valley, WA, or Coeur d’Alene, ID, today to find out whether iDose TR is the right choice for you.